§ Lord Lyellasked Her Majesty's Government:
About implementation of the EC Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC) in Scotland and, in particular, when they expect to announce their decisions regarding the designation of Nitrate Vulnerable Zones.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Scottish Office (The Earl of Lindsay)In June 1994 the Government consulted publicly on two areas proposed as candidates for designation as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZ) in Scotland—the catchments of the Balmalcolm groundwater borehole in Fife and the River Ythan in Grampian. One hundred and eighty-nine replies were received.
Following careful consideration of the responses and the extent to which each of these areas meet the criteria laid down in the directive, it has been decided to designate the catchment of the Balmalcolm borehole as an NVZ.
80WASince a final link between higher levels of nitrate and the increased growth of the algae enteromorpha has yet to be determined scientifically, the Government have decided not to designate the catchment of the river Ythan as an NVZ on this occasion. There will, however, be continuing research into the extent of any link between the growth of the algae in the estuary and nitrate from agricultural sources in the catchment. A further review of the case for designation of NVZs throughout Scotland will take place, as required by the directive, by 19 December 1997 and this review will take account of the additional research.
The Government will now make it a priority to promote good practice in the use of nitrates by farmers throughout the Ythan catchment in line with the code of good practice Prevention of Environmental Pollution from Agricultural Activity.
I can also announce that the Government have today issued a consultation paper on regulatory proposals and the action programme necessary to give effect to the Directive's requirements in NVZs in Scotland. A copy of the proposals is available in the Library of the House. Comments are sought by 25 March 1996.